Periodontics
Periodontal therapy
Periodontal therapy (gum treatment) is frequently essential for preserving ideal oral health. The goal of periodontal procedures is to enhance the stability of the tooth's supporting tissues, including the gums and alveolar bone. These treatments consist of two phases: root surface debridement (thorough cleaning under local anesthesia in one or multiple sessions) and periodontal surgery (which may involve pocket reduction, gum grafts, etc.). While some patients may attain stability solely through root surface debridement, others may require the surgical phase to achieve the most favorable outcome.
Debridement
The periodontium encompasses the supporting tissues that surround a tooth, comprising the bone, gums, and ligaments. One of the objectives of practicing proper oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular dental check-ups is to maintain optimal periodontal health. Nevertheless, certain individuals exhibit a higher susceptibility to periodontal diseases, necessitating tailored treatments. For example, deep scaling procedures (comprehensive cleaning) are frequently conducted with local anesthesia for some individuals, while others may require more frequent cleaning appointments, typically scheduled every 3-4 months.
Scaling and root planing
Scaling is undertaken when there is a periodontal pocket (loss of attachment around a tooth). This procedure entails the removal of tartar that has adhered to the tooth's root, causing chronic inflammation beneath the gumline. The goal is to flatten the root surface to enhance the firmness of the gum tissue surrounding the tooth, facilitating the reattachment of gum fibers to the tooth and ultimately improving its support.